Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly being recognized in adults later in life, particularly among women experiencing menopause and individuals over the age of 60. This delayed diagnosis often follows years of unexplained symptoms that were previously attributed to other conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, or normal aging.
Recent coverage by Dutch public broadcaster MAX’s program Meldpunt Actueel highlighted this growing trend, featuring personal accounts from individuals who received an ADHD diagnosis only after prolonged struggles with focus, emotional regulation, and daily functioning. The broadcast aired on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 7:50 PM on NPO 2, bringing national attention to a phenomenon long overlooked in clinical practice.
One case profiled in the segment involved Franka van der Poll, a 51-year-old woman who endured years of fatigue, inner restlessness, and persistent low mood. Initially, her symptoms were blamed on depression and hormonal changes associated with perimenopause. Only after experiencing multiple burn-outs was ADHD considered as a potential underlying cause. Similarly, Renée van de Bilt, aged 69, received her diagnosis late in life after earlier evaluations had pointed toward grief, depression, or even dementia.
These experiences reflect a broader pattern identified by healthcare professionals: ADHD in women often presents differently than in men. While hyperactivity and impulsivity are more commonly associated with the disorder in males, women frequently report internalized symptoms such as chronic worry, difficulty concentrating, procrastination, and a constant sense of mental overload. These manifestations can be easily mistaken for mood disorders or stress-related conditions, especially during hormonal transitions.
According to psychiatrist and special professor Sandra Kooij, who has conducted research on ADHD and hormonal influences, women with ADHD are two to three times more likely to experience mood disturbances during phases of hormonal fluctuation—such as perimenopause, menopause, or postpartum periods—compared to other times. This heightened vulnerability contributes to misdiagnosis, as emotional symptoms are often treated in isolation without considering neurodevelopmental factors.
The masking of symptoms further complicates recognition. Many women develop coping mechanisms over time to conceal their struggles, such as over-preparing for tasks, relying heavily on lists and routines, or pushing through exhaustion. While these strategies may allow them to function in the short term, they often come at a significant cost to mental and physical well-being, increasing the risk of burnout, anxiety disorders, and depression.
In older adults, the challenge of diagnosis is compounded by the tendency to attribute cognitive difficulties to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia. Symptoms such as forgetfulness, disorganization, and difficulty following conversations may prompt evaluations for dementia when, in fact, undiagnosed ADHD could be a contributing or alternative explanation. This diagnostic overshadowing delays access to appropriate support and interventions.
Experts emphasize that ADHD is not limited to childhood and can persist throughout the lifespan. Longitudinal studies indicate that approximately 60% of individuals diagnosed with ADHD in childhood continue to experience impairing symptoms into adulthood. However, due to lack of awareness among both patients and clinicians, many adults—especially those who did not exhibit overt behavioral issues in school—remain undiagnosed for decades.
The implications of a late diagnosis extend beyond symptom relief. Receiving an accurate ADHD diagnosis in midlife or later can validate years of struggle, reduce self-blame, and open pathways to effective treatment. Management strategies may include psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy tailored to ADHD, lifestyle adjustments, and, when appropriate, medication under medical supervision. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications have demonstrated efficacy in adult populations, though prescribing requires careful evaluation of comorbidities and potential interactions.
Raising awareness among healthcare providers is critical to improving detection rates. Primary care physicians, gynecologists, and geriatricians are often the first points of contact for adults experiencing mood or cognitive changes. Training these professionals to recognize the subtler presentations of ADHD—particularly in women and older adults—can prevent years of misdirected treatment and unnecessary suffering.
Organizations such as ADHD Netherlands and international bodies like the World Federation of ADHD continue to advocate for greater recognition of adult ADHD across the lifespan. Their efforts include promoting screening tools validated for adult use, supporting research into gender-specific expressions of the disorder, and advocating for inclusive diagnostic criteria in clinical guidelines.
For individuals who suspect they may have undiagnosed ADHD, seeking an evaluation from a qualified mental health professional—such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or neurologist with expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders—is recommended. Comprehensive assessments typically involve clinical interviews, standardized rating scales, and a review of developmental history to differentiate ADHD from other conditions with overlapping symptoms.
The April 17, 2026, episode of Meldpunt Actueel serves as a timely reminder that ADHD does not disappear with age and that its impact can be profound when left unaddressed. By sharing personal stories and expert insights, the program contributes to a growing movement toward earlier recognition, reduced stigma, and better support for adults living with ADHD—regardless of when they receive their diagnosis.
As understanding of adult ADHD evolves, so too must clinical approaches and public health messaging. Ensuring that women going through hormonal transitions and older adults are not overlooked requires ongoing education, accessible screening, and a willingness to look beyond surface-level explanations for persistent cognitive and emotional challenges.
For further information on adult ADHD, including screening resources and guidance on seeking evaluation, readers are encouraged to consult reputable sources such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) or CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), both of which provide evidence-based information tailored to adults.
Have you or someone you know experienced symptoms that were overlooked for years before an ADHD diagnosis? Sharing your story can help others recognize the signs and seek timely support. We welcome your comments and encourage you to share this article to help spread awareness about adult ADHD across diverse populations.
Related reading